A sub wall is a wall built below ground level, typically located on the back or side of a basement or monoslab foundation where the land slopes downwards.
A sub wall is fundamentally a wall below grade. Its primary function is to bridge the gap between the natural ground level on a sloping lot and the required foundation height for the rest of the house.
Where Are Sub Walls Used?
Based on common construction practices and the provided reference:
- Location: Sub walls are usually on the back of a basement or regular monoslab where the lot drops off in the back or on one side.
- Context: They are necessary when the terrain is not level, presenting challenges for standard foundation construction.
Why Are Sub Walls Necessary?
The main purpose of a sub wall is practical and structural:
- Elevation Adjustment: Sub walls are used to get foundations up to grade with the rest of the house.
- Addressing Site Conditions: This is typically required due to sloping lots or sometimes, soft soils, which cannot adequately support the foundation directly at the desired height.
Essentially, a sub wall acts as an extended foundation segment, allowing the main foundation or slab to be constructed at a consistent level across a property with varying elevation.
Quick Overview
Here's a simple breakdown:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Below grade, typically rear or side of basement/monoslab. |
| Purpose | Raises foundation to grade level. |
| Reason | Sloping lots or soft soils. |
| Function | Acts as an extended part of the foundation wall. |
Understanding sub walls is crucial for grasping how builders handle uneven terrain to create stable and level homes. They are a specific solution to a common site challenge in construction.
